The biggest white elephant was transformed into probably the best venue in the country. Capable of transforming from a gig setting into a major sporting arena in a matter of hours, the Dome re-invented itself so successfully that it regularly sells out in minutes, despite holding up to 20,000 seats. Over 500 toilets, plenty of food and drink outlets, with queues kept to a minimum, the experience can be so painless, it's likely you'll be tempted to visit again soon. Add to that, 360 degree seating, with nothing to impair lines of site, comfy seats and the best state of the art acoustics around, it's hard to imagine why it didn't start its life in this capacity. The River Bus also stops here, so you can cruise out and enjoy the sights en route. Pick up from Embankment, London Eye or Tower Piers (you'll be heading out on the Woolwich service) and takes 45-50 minutes.

Following a £35 million refurbishment, the once tatty Wembley Arena re-opened its doors in 2006. Always a favourite location for huge bands to end their world tours (or really huge bands in the stadium nearby), this venue has great acoustics for such a large space. Facilities are good (plenty of toilets) and the place is clean and slick. Also, the creation of the square in front and re-orientation of the building (they swung everything around 180 degrees) means that it feels more connected to the Wembley complex. Good transport links due to the recent rebuild of the stadium. Holds 12,500 at capacity.